A Guide For Planning Your First Trip To Pakistan

Pakistan is a country of contrasts.

It’s the place where strangers will insist on paying for your tea, where snow-capped peaks rise beyond dusty plains, and where history spills into every street corner. It’s also the place where you might get stuck in a four-hour blackout, spend an entire day chasing a travel permit, or dodge traffic in cities that seem to run on chaos.

For travelers, Pakistan can be magical and maddening in equal measure. It is warm, raw, generous, and intense. You will be welcomed, stared at, and – sometimes – tested.

I say this as someone who knows it from the inside out.

I was born and raised in Lahore, spent my student years leading hiking trips in the northern ranges, and now live in Toronto. I’ve experienced Pakistan both as a local and with the perspective of someone returning as an outsider.

In this guide for planning a trip to Pakistan, I’ll cover:

The best time to visit and where to go
How to navigate the visa process
How to stay safe, healthy, and connected

Pakistan isn’t the easiest country to travel – but if you know what to expect, it can be one of the most rewarding.

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Table of Contents

Pakistan at a Glance

Geography & landscapes

Pakistan runs from the Arabian Sea in the south to some of the world’s highest peaks in the north. It shares borders with India, China, Afghanistan, and Iran, and has a disputed border with India in the region of Jammu & Kashmir. The terrain is hugely varied: mountains in the north (Karakoram, Himalaya, Hindu Kush), agricultural plains in Punjab and Sindh, arid deserts in Sindh and Balochistan, and a long coastline along the Arabian Sea.

Provinces and regions

Pakistan has four provinces – Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (often shortened to KPK), and Balochistan – plus the federal capital territory of Islamabad.

Punjab is the most populous province and holds significant political power nationally. It’s the agricultural heartland and home to cities like Lahore and Multan.
Sindh is anchored by Karachi, the country’s largest city and economic hub.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) borders Afghanistan and is known for its mountainous terrain, Pashtun culture, and history as a gateway for traders and invaders.
Balochistan is the largest province by land but the least populated. It has ongoing separatist movements and security challenges, despite being rich in natural resources.
Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), while administered by Pakistan, is not constitutionally a province and does not have the same representation or rights as the four provinces. It’s the gateway to many of Pakistan’s high peaks and trekking routes.
Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) is a self-governing administrative territory under Pakistan’s control, with its own assembly but limited autonomy in matters like defense and foreign policy.

The hospitality paradox

Travelers often speak about Pakistan’s extraordinary hospitality – being offered tea, food, or even accommodation by complete strangers. This is a deeply ingrained cultural value, not a performance for tourists. At the same time, navigating Pakistan can mean dealing with red tape, conservative norms, and unpredictable infrastructure. The welcome is real, but so are the challenges.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Do you need a visa for Pakistan?

Most travelers will need a visa to enter Pakistan. The good news is that Pakistan now offers an online e-visa system for citizens of over 190 countries. A small number of nationalities (mainly in South Asia) have different arrangements, so it’s worth double-checking the official Pakistan e-visa portal before booking flights.

The e-visa process step-by-step

The e-visa process is relatively straightforward, but you should allow at least 2–3 weeks for approval (sometimes longer).

Apply online via the NADRA e-visa portal.
Upload your documents, including a passport photo, passport scan, and your Letter of Invitation (LOI) or hotel booking.
Pay the visa fee online by card (fees vary by nationality).
Wait for approval – you’ll receive it by email.
Print your e-visa and carry a copy when you travel.

A Letter of Invitation (LOI) is usually required for a tourist visa. You can get one from:

A licensed Pakistani tour operator
A hotel you’ve booked with (some offer this service)
A friend if you have one – or hit me up, I might be able to help.

Long-term visas: If you plan on staying more than 30–90 days, check extension options before arrival.

Ports of entry

By air: Main international airports are Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi with flights coming with a layover from most countries in the Middle East, Turkey, Malaysia.
By land:

Wagah border from India (near Lahore) – the most commonly used land crossing by far, with a daily flag-lowering ceremony that’s worth seeing if you have time.
Khunjerab Pass from China (via Gilgit-Baltistan) – open seasonally (usually April–November) depending on weather and road conditions.
Taftan from Iran (Balochistan) – not recommended for most travelers due to security issues in Balochistan.
Torkham from Afghanistan (KPK) – not recommended for tourists; primarily for commercial and local traffic, with strict security.
By sea: Limited passenger services, mostly cargo.

Tips for smooth entry

Print everything: visa, LOI, and hotel confirmations. Immigration likes paper copies.
Carry some local currency for arrival fees or taxis – ATMs may not work immediately.
Expect questions about your travel plans, especially if you’re visiting sensitive regions.

When to Visit Pakistan

Pakistan’s weather swings from scorching heat in the south to snow-bound winters in the north, so your timing depends on where you’re going.

For the mountains (Hunza, Skardu, Fairy Meadows): Summer is best, from late May to early October. I’d avoid August—it’s peak monsoon, and heavy rains can cause landslides. In recent years, climate change has made weather patterns less predictable, so check forecasts and road conditions before you travel.
For the cities (Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi): Winter (November–February) is ideal, with cooler temperatures and less humidity. If you’re visiting Lahore or Islamabad in winter, be aware of smog—air quality can be poor, especially in November and December.

Money Matters in Pakistan

Currency & exchange rates

The local currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Exchange rates fluctuate a lot, so check just before you travel. USD is the easiest foreign currency to exchange, followed by GBP and EUR.

Are ATMs reliable?

In big cities, yes – though not all machines accept foreign cards. In smaller towns, ATMs can be rare or out of service. Always have some cash as backup. MCB, Standard Chartered, and HBL ATMs tend to work best with international cards.

Card acceptance vs. cash-only

Pakistan is still mostly cash-based. Big hotels, malls, and some restaurants take cards, but most shops, markets, and transport are cash-only.

Tipping etiquette

I encourage tipping in Pakistan – not because it’s a luxury extra, but because for many people here, it’s their livelihood. Wages for service staff, drivers, and porters are often shockingly low, and the cost of living keeps rising. A few hundred rupees might not mean much to you, but it can make a difference to them. In restaurants, 10% is standard. For drivers, porters, and guides, a tip of $1-3 USD is fair for small jobs, more for full-day work. Don’t overthink it – just be generous where you can.

Budget breakdown (per day)

Backpacker: USD $20–35 (local food, budget hotels, buses)
Mid-range: USD $50–100 (nicer hotels, domestic flights, mix of local and tourist restaurants)
Comfort/Luxury: USD $150+ (top hotels, private transport, guided tours)

Getting Around Pakistan

Domestic flights

Flying is the fastest way to cover long distances. PIA, Airblue, and SereneAir run domestic routes, but delays are common – especially to and from the north where weather can ground flights for days. Always keep buffer days in your itinerary if you’re flying to places like Skardu or Gilgit.

Buses & coaches

Long-distance buses are a reliable, budget-friendly option.

Natco: The go-to for the north. I’ve taken Natco to Gilgit and Hunza multiple times, even alone, and found public spaces generally safe thanks to the deeply ingrained hospitality here – people will often look out for you.
Faisal Movers and Daewoo Express: Comfortable for intercity routes like Lahore–Islamabad or Lahore–Multan.
“Local” buses: The cheapest way to travel, but often the least predictable. They usually wait to fill up before leaving, so there’s no fixed timetable. Expect cramped seating, loud music, and bumpy rides. Read my public transport horror story before you decide to skimp out on a couple of dollars though.

Trains & railway experiences

Romantic in theory, slow in reality. Trains are often delayed, sometimes by hours. I’ve only taken the train from Lahore to Islamabad once, but longer journeys like Lahore to Karachi can be more comfortable if you book a compartment. Expect crowds, little personal space, and the unmistakable smell of desi masalas wafting through the carriage.

Renting a car vs. hiring a driver

Self-driving in Pakistani cities is doable if you’re used to chaotic traffic, but I wouldn’t recommend it up north – unpaved mountain roads, landslide risks, and local driving styles make it stressful for visitors. Car rentals with a driver are common and affordable, and often the safest choice for covering longer distances.

City transport & rideshare apps

In big cities, Uber and InDrive are the easiest way to get around without haggling. Rickshaws are everywhere and cheap, but expect noise, dust, and no air conditioning.

Safety & Security

Is Pakistan safe for tourists in 2025?

Safety in Pakistan depends heavily on where you go and how you travel. In many areas, you’ll find an incredible level of hospitality – strangers offering help, food, and even a place to stay. At the same time, certain regions have serious security concerns.

For more details, you can read my blog post on how safe pakistan really is. Here’s a VERY short TLDR;

Regional safety differences

Generally safe for tourists: Gilgit-Baltistan, Hunza, Skardu, Lahore, Islamabad.
Exercise caution: Karachi (urban crime risk), interior Sindh, southern Punjab.
Avoid without local guidance: Parts of Balochistan and KPK near the Afghan border.
Security conditions change often.

Police checkpoints & NOC permits

On certain routes – especially in Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan – you may encounter police checkpoints or be asked for a No Objection Certificate (NOC). These permits are meant to track tourists in sensitive areas. The process can be bureaucratic but is usually handled by tour operators or local authorities if you plan ahead.

Tips for solo female travelers

I don’t recommend solo female travel here, despite what some influencers portray. As a woman who has traveled extensively, I rank Pakistan low for female safety. Foreign women may get more leeway and protection, but harassment risks remain high. Traveling with a group, ideally with at least one male companion, significantly reduces unwanted attention.

Handling stares, questions, and harassment

Expect to be stared at – sometimes out of curiosity, sometimes in a way that feels uncomfortable. People may ask for photos, especially in rural areas. Ignoring or politely declining is best. Physical harassment is less common in public spaces, but it does happen.

Can you trust the police?

Police are generally polite to foreigners and may go out of their way to help you. That said, corruption exists, and locals often have a different experience. If stopped, be respectful and patient – it usually smooths the interaction.

Cultural Etiquette & Social Norms

Dress codes: urban vs. rural, men vs. women

Pakistan is conservative in dress, though expectations vary by location.

Women: In cities like Lahore or Karachi, foreign women can wear loose trousers and a tunic-style top, but shoulders, chest, and legs should be covered. In rural areas and religious sites, a headscarf and more modest dress are expected. Avoid figure-hugging clothes anywhere outside private spaces.
Men: Shorts are generally fine in big cities but can draw stares in rural or conservative areas. Shalwar kameez is widely worn and a good choice for blending in.

Religion & Friday prayer closures

Friday is the weekly holy day. Mosques fill for midday prayers, and some businesses shut between 12:30–2:30 p.m. during this time. While most restaurants stay open, expect reduced activity in smaller towns.

Gender interactions & PDA norms

Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon. Interestingly, same-gender physical affection (holding hands, arms around shoulders) is common and socially accepted. Women may experience stricter gender separation in rural areas, especially in seating arrangements at events or restaurants.

Photography etiquette

Always ask before photographing people, especially women. In rural areas like Chitral or Swat, people can be camera-shy or offended by uninvited photos. Some government buildings, military sites, and bridges are off-limits for photography.

Parda & vgender separation

“Parda” refers to the practice of gender segregation, both physical and social. This can mean separate entrances or seating areas, particularly in conservative regions. Travelers should respect these boundaries to avoid causing offense.

Hospitality, class, and invisible boundaries

Pakistani hospitality is legendary – you may be invited into homes for tea or meals after a short conversation. But class differences are real and shape interactions; wealthier Pakistanis often have very different lifestyles and attitudes from rural or working-class families. Foreign visitors sometimes move between these worlds without realizing the social lines they’re crossing.

Why chai is a ritual, not just a drink

Chai isn’t just tea – it’s the centerpiece of countless social interactions. Whether you’re visiting someone’s home, stopping at a roadside stall, or waiting at a bus stop, chai is the default gesture of welcome. Refusing it outright can feel impolite; a polite “just a small cup” is a better option if you’re not in the mood.

Language & Communication

Do people speak English?

I only realized this once I traveled the world, but I’d say English in Pakistan is better than in many parts of Europe. We were colonized by the British, and the post-colonial hangover is still strong – private school education is entirely in English, and it’s widely used in business, government, and higher education. In cities, especially among the middle and upper classes, you can easily get by without a word of Urdu. Rural areas are more hit-and-miss, but you’ll still usually find someone who can translate for you.

Is Urdu spoken everywhere?

Not at all. Urdu isn’t the mother tongue for most Pakistanis, and outside Punjab and Karachi, it’s far less common. In rural Sindh, Balochistan, KPK, and Gilgit-Baltistan, people grow up speaking regional languages – Sindhi, Balochi, Pashto, Shina, Burushaski, and many others. Urdu was pushed as the “unifying” language after partition, which involved forcing it into education and administration in provinces where it wasn’t spoken. That history still shapes attitudes toward it today.

Useful Urdu phrases for travelers

Even a few words will get you smiles and warmer service:

Hello – Assalam-o-Alaikum (peace be upon you)
Thank you – Shukriya
How much? – Kitne ka hai?
Yes / No – Haan / Nahi
I don’t understand – Mujhe samajh nahi aayi

Connectivity in Pakistan

SIM card options

In the cities, Zong and Telenor are the most common providers for travelers—both have decent coverage, though speeds can vary. If you’re heading north, Scom is the only network with consistent service in places like Gilgit-Baltistan and Hunza. You can buy SIM cards at airports or in major towns—bring your passport for registration.

If you prefer to arrive ready-to-go, you can set up an eSIM before you land. I personally use Airalo — they have region-specific packages that save you the hassle of finding a SIM shop on arrival. It’s slightly pricier than buying locally, but the convenience is worth it.

Internet speeds & coverage

In urban areas, 4G speeds are decent. In rural or mountainous areas, expect slow or no data. Hotels and guesthouses may advertise Wi-Fi, but speeds are often unreliable.

What plug type does Pakistan use?

Pakistan uses Type C and Type D plugs (two or three round pins). The standard voltage is 230 V. A universal adapter is a good idea if you’re coming from outside South Asia.

Loadshedding: the reality of blackouts

Blackouts – locally called loadshedding – are part of daily life in many areas. There’s no fixed schedule, and in summer, outages can be frequent. Upscale hotels often have generators or UPS backup, but budget accommodations may leave you without electricity for hours. Keep devices charged when you can.

Using VPNs in Pakistan

Some websites and social media platforms can be restricted or slow due to government filtering. A VPN helps bypass these issues and keeps your connection secure on public Wi-Fi. I use Windscribe (it’s free), but I’m sure you can find lots of options.

Food & Drink in Pakistan

Can you drink the tap water?

No. Not even in major cities. Always drink bottled or filtered water. In many hotels and restaurants, “filtered” means boiled or passed through a basic purifier – if in doubt, ask.

Is street food safe?

Street food is a big part of Pakistan’s flavor, but it comes with a risk. You might get an upset stomach – sometimes it’s worth it, sometimes not. Go for busy stalls with high turnover, and avoid anything that’s been sitting out. No guarantees though, ever since I’ve moved abroad I get an upset stomach almost every time I go home. No biggie. Comes with the territory.

Vegetarian & vegan survival guide

Life as a vegan here would be hard. Even plant-based dishes like lentils are often cooked in butter or ghee. Veganism is still an alien concept for most Pakistanis, and with poverty levels high, the ethics of animal consumption aren’t top of mind – when people are dying, you can’t expect them to care much about the death of animals. Vegetarians will have an easier time with vegetable curries, lentils, and breads, but always ask about the cooking fat.

How spicy is Pakistani food?

Pakistani food is spicy by default, and “less spicy” often still means hot by international standards. Chili, black pepper, and garam masala are staples. That said, it’s not all fire – most cities have plenty of fast-food chains, cafés, and “continental” restaurants if you need a break.

Must-try dishes

Every region has its own specialties – except Islamabad, where you’ll struggle to find anything memorable (hope no Islamabadi is reading this). Lahore is famous for nihari and halwa puri, Karachi for bun kebabs and biryani, the north for apricot-based dishes and fresh trout. Other must-tries include chapli kebab, samosas, gol gappay, and paye.

Where to Go in Pakistan

Lahore vs. Karachi

Lahore is Pakistan’s cultural heart – think Mughal architecture, endless food streets, and a lively, slightly chaotic energy. Karachi, on the other hand, is the sprawling economic hub with a coastline, fast-paced life, and a more diverse mix of communities. Both are worth visiting, but if you only have time for one, Lahore wins for history and food.

(Take my advice with a grain of salt, I’m a little biased)

Northern highlights

The north is what draws most visitors – glacier-fed rivers, high mountain passes, and remote valleys. Hunza is the most famous, but Skardu offers more rugged, less commercialized scenery. Fairy Meadows is iconic but not as remote as it once was.

Realistic 10-day itineraries

You can’t “see Pakistan” in 10 days, but you can get a taste. My Northern Pakistan itinerary is designed for those who want mountains and culture without spending weeks on the road.

Travel time realities

Pakistan looks small on a map, but road conditions, security checkpoints, and mountain terrain make journeys longer than you’d think. Islamabad to Hunza can take 18–20 hours by road; even short city hops can be delayed by traffic or weather.

Rules, Risks & Realities

Traveling during Ramadan

Ramadan isn’t just about fasting – it changes how public life operates. Many restaurants shut during daylight hours, and in more conservative areas, eating or drinking in public before sunset isn’t just frowned upon, it can be confrontational. Sometimes it’s almost dangerous so I wouldn’t recommend it. Keep snacks and water discreet for private spaces. Evenings transform into iftar feasts with street food stalls and buzzing energy, but the days can feel slow and sleepy.

Visiting mosques & shrines

For mosques, modest clothing is non-negotiable: women cover their hair, arms, and legs; men avoid shorts. Shoes come off at the entrance, and photo etiquette is strict—ask first. Some mosques, especially in more conservative cities, restrict entry to Muslims. Sufi shrines are more relaxed, filled with music, incense, and a mix of people, but they can be loud and crowded, especially on Thursdays.

LGBTQ+ travelers in Pakistan

Legally, homosexuality is banned, but behind closed doors, everything goes. The BBC documentary How Gay is Pakistan? captured this contradiction – vibrant underground scenes coexisting with official disapproval. Historically, under the Mughals, gender and sexuality were more fluid, but today, the climate is shifting toward anti-trans rhetoric that mirrors right-wing movements in the West. The khwajasira community (transgender and gender non-conforming people) has existed for centuries, but their rights are increasingly under attack. Public discretion is essential, even if the private reality is different.

Alcohol laws & realities

Technically, alcohol is illegal for Muslims, but Murree Brewery has been in business (and profitable) for over a century and I assure you it’s not through export and sales to foreigners. Foreigners are allowed to buy it with a permit (rarely enforced). Karachi has licensed wine shops, bootleggers operate in most cities, and upscale private events often serve freely. Availability depends on where you are – Sindh is looser, KP and Balochistan more restrictive.

Weed & other drugs: legal risks

Hash is more common than weed here, especially in the north, where it’s often culturally embedded. You might see men smoking openly in chai dhabas, but that doesn’t mean it’s legal. In cities, it’s a behind-closed-doors thing, often at private parties. If caught, you can usually bribe your way out.

Booking Your Trip

Should you book hotels in advance?

In major cities and tourist hubs, you can often find accommodation on Booking.com or similar platforms. Bigger hotels cater to online bookings, but in smaller towns – especially in the north – many guesthouses don’t have an online presence. There, walk-ins are common, or you’ll need to call directly to reserve a room.

During peak summer in Gilgit-Baltistan or Skardu, book ahead – rooms fill up fast. In winter or the shoulder seasons, you can usually take your chances and shop around after arriving.

How to book buses, trains, or domestic flights

Domestic flights can be booked online through airlines like PIA, Airblue, or SereneAir. Trains and buses are a bit more old-school. While the Pakistan Railways app and website exist, many routes still require in-person booking at a station. For buses, companies like Natco, Faisal Movers, and Daewoo sell tickets online, but “local” bus services often wait until they’re full before departing – timetables are loose at best.

For treks, you’ll need to arrange guides and porters in advance. Tour operators can package transport, accommodation, and guides, which is often the easiest route if you’re short on time.

Can unmarried couples book a room together?

This is a cultural gray area. Foreign couples rarely get questioned, but it still happens. As a precaution, I recommend saying you’re married if you’re not – it avoids awkward conversations at the reception desk. I’ve been turned away from hotels before when traveling with male friends. Smaller family-run guesthouses tend to be stricter, while larger hotels are usually more relaxed.

How to Leave a Positive Impact

Pakistan isn’t an easy place to travel, but that’s exactly why responsible travel matters here. This is a country where tourism can make a real difference to local livelihoods. Pay fairly – don’t haggle someone down to save a dollar when that’s their day’s wage. Try to eat at local restaurants and hire local guides.

Be mindful of cultural norms even when they don’t align with your own. Your presence shapes how locals perceive foreigners for years to come. The more respect you show, the warmer the welcome the next traveler will get.

Final Thoughts: It’s Hard, and It’s Worth It

Pakistan will test you. The roads are rough, the bureaucracy is frustrating, and sometimes the cultural gaps feel like canyons. But it will also give you moments you can’t find anywhere else – a stranger offering you tea in the middle of nowhere, a mountain sunrise so still it feels like time has stopped, laughter shared with people you’ve just met.

This isn’t a “tick it off your list” country. It’s a place that gets under your skin, changes the way you see hospitality, resilience, and beauty. You won’t leave unchanged. And if you’re willing to take it on with patience and openness, you’ll find it’s one of the most rewarding trips you’ll ever take.